Self-compacting concrete as a modern solution to small architectural forms

Abstract

Modern Materials science in Сonstruction is developing in a way of higher functionality, durability, ecological safety of the materials, which also must be easy to work with. The workability of concrete is provided by its property to fill the formwork under the influence of gravity. Small architectural forms (SAF) – are practical and art objects which complement outdoor spaces and enrich architectural, urban and landscape composition of the city. Manufacturing of SAF is complicated by its extraordinary geometric shapes with plenty of tiny elements. This fact limits the usage of traditional technologies of vibration for compaction. In this paper properties and composition of self-compacting concrete (SCC) are discussed, as well as the possibility of its application for thin-walled heavily reinforced constructions to produce unique SAF for landscape design. The obtaining of flowable segregation-resistant concrete mix with low water-cement ratio is studied. The hypothesis of applicability of SCC for SAF in landscape design is based on high deformability, flowability and consolidation by means of its own weight without segregation. The methodology of the research is based on the literature review concerning the usage of SCC for SAF with some special additives with plasticizing and anti-segregating affects. The investigation showed that SCC is applicable for SAF in landscape design.